250 words

-Looking back on your high school career, what (if anything) would you do differently, and why?

Overall I believe I have made productive use of my time at Newport High School. If I had it all to do over again, I would change a few things.

I put a lot of focus on math, science, and computers. I thought for a long time that I wanted to be an engineer and fully develop those skills into practical employment. Gradually, this goal shifted and I wanted to be a better rounded student and develop all of my skills, especially those needed in my Advanced Communication classes. I am proud of my improvement in these areas.

I enjoyed my three years of Spanish, but did have to work extremely hard. I regret not taking another foreign language such as Japanese, or German, but each year my schedule has been packed as I tried to fit in more than possible.

I have always had an interest in doing a foreign exchange, but was intimidated by the spectre of total immersion and isolation from everything I held familiar. I also didn’t want to miss an entire year of academics. In retrospect, I think I could have handled it with ease and would have greatly benefited from the experience. This was based on my home-stay during my visit with Spanish Club to Venezuela. The family I stayed with did not speak English, yet within a few days I was able to express almost all of my thoughts and feelings and began interacting with other people in the community. I really enjoyed venturing off on my own and talking to people in Spanish.

I didn’t start participating in cross county until my senior year and thoroughly enjoyed it. I wish that I would have started earlier. It has vastly improved my physical stature and self confidence.